Drug Facts
Composition & Profile
Identifiers & Packaging
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Heparin Sodium Injection is supplied in the following strengths and package configurations: Unit of Sale Concentration (per total volume) NDC 0409-1316-32 5,000 USP units/0.5 mL Bin of 50 Preservative-free 0.5 mL fill in 2.5 mL Carpuject™ Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the Carpuject™ Syringe System NDC 0409-1402-12 5,000 USP units/1 mL Bin of 50 Preserved with benzyl alcohol 1 mL fill in 2.5 mL Carpuject™ Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the Carpuject™ Syringe System Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Do not freeze. Discard unused portion after initial use.; PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 1 mL Cartridge Label 1 mL Single-dose Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Unit with Luer Lock Heparin Sodium Inj., USP 5,000 USP Units/mL NOT FOR LOCK FLUSH From Porcine Intestinal Mucosa - For Intravenous or Subcutaneous Use NDC 0409-1402-27 Rx only Hospira PAA140977 LOT #####AA EXP DMMMYYYY PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 1 mL Cartridge Label; PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 1 mL Cartridge Box Label BREAK SEAL TO OPEN 1 mL Single-dose 50 Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Units with Luer Lock Needle not included Heparin Sodium Injection, USP 5,000 USP Units/mL NOT FOR LOCK FLUSH From Porcine Intestinal Mucosa - For Intravenous or Subcutaneous Use NDC 0409-1402-12 Contains 50 of NDC 0409-1402-27 Rx only Hospira PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 1 mL Cartridge Box Label; PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 0.5 mL Cartridge Label 0.5 mL Single-dose Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Unit with Luer Lock Heparin Sodium Inj., USP 5,000 USP Units/ 0.5 mL NOT FOR LOCK FLUSH From Porcine Intestinal Mucosa - For Intravenous or Subcutaneous Use NDC 0409-1316-11 Rx only PRESERVATIVE-FREE Hospira PAA140976 LOT #####AA EXP DMMMYYYY PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 0.5 mL Cartridge Label; PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 0.5 mL Cartridge Container Label BREAK SEAL TO OPEN 0.5 mL Single-dose 50 Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Units with Luer Lock Preservative-Free Needle not included Heparin Sodium Injection, USP 5,000 USP Units/0.5 mL NOT FOR LOCK FLUSH From Porcine Intestinal Mucosa - For Intravenous or Subcutaneous Use NDC 0409-1316-32 Contains 50 of NDC 0409-1316-11 Rx only Hospira PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 0.5 mL Cartridge Container Label
- 16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Heparin Sodium Injection is supplied in the following strengths and package configurations: Unit of Sale Concentration (per total volume) NDC 0409-1316-32 5,000 USP units/0.5 mL Bin of 50 Preservative-free 0.5 mL fill in 2.5 mL Carpuject™ Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the Carpuject™ Syringe System NDC 0409-1402-12 5,000 USP units/1 mL Bin of 50 Preserved with benzyl alcohol 1 mL fill in 2.5 mL Carpuject™ Single-dose cartridge with Luer Lock for the Carpuject™ Syringe System Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Do not freeze. Discard unused portion after initial use.
- PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 1 mL Cartridge Label 1 mL Single-dose Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Unit with Luer Lock Heparin Sodium Inj., USP 5,000 USP Units/mL NOT FOR LOCK FLUSH From Porcine Intestinal Mucosa - For Intravenous or Subcutaneous Use NDC 0409-1402-27 Rx only Hospira PAA140977 LOT #####AA EXP DMMMYYYY PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 1 mL Cartridge Label
- PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 1 mL Cartridge Box Label BREAK SEAL TO OPEN 1 mL Single-dose 50 Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Units with Luer Lock Needle not included Heparin Sodium Injection, USP 5,000 USP Units/mL NOT FOR LOCK FLUSH From Porcine Intestinal Mucosa - For Intravenous or Subcutaneous Use NDC 0409-1402-12 Contains 50 of NDC 0409-1402-27 Rx only Hospira PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 1 mL Cartridge Box Label
- PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 0.5 mL Cartridge Label 0.5 mL Single-dose Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Unit with Luer Lock Heparin Sodium Inj., USP 5,000 USP Units/ 0.5 mL NOT FOR LOCK FLUSH From Porcine Intestinal Mucosa - For Intravenous or Subcutaneous Use NDC 0409-1316-11 Rx only PRESERVATIVE-FREE Hospira PAA140976 LOT #####AA EXP DMMMYYYY PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 0.5 mL Cartridge Label
- PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 0.5 mL Cartridge Container Label BREAK SEAL TO OPEN 0.5 mL Single-dose 50 Carpuject™ Sterile Cartridge Units with Luer Lock Preservative-Free Needle not included Heparin Sodium Injection, USP 5,000 USP Units/0.5 mL NOT FOR LOCK FLUSH From Porcine Intestinal Mucosa - For Intravenous or Subcutaneous Use NDC 0409-1316-32 Contains 50 of NDC 0409-1316-11 Rx only Hospira PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 0.5 mL Cartridge Container Label
Overview
Heparin is a heterogeneous group of straight-chain anionic mucopolysaccharides, called glycosaminoglycans, having anticoagulant properties. Although others may be present, the main sugars occurring in heparin are: (1) α-L-iduronic acid 2-sulfate, (2) 2-deoxy-2-sulfamino-α-D-glucose 6-sulfate, (3) β-D-glucuronic acid, (4) 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-α-D-glucose, and (5) α-L-iduronic acid. These sugars are present in decreasing amounts, usually in the order (2)>(1)>(4)>(3)>(5), and are joined by glycosidic linkages, forming polymers of varying sizes. Heparin is strongly acidic because of its content of covalently linked sulfate and carboxylic acid groups. In heparin sodium, the acidic protons of the sulfate units are partially replaced by sodium ions. Structural formula of heparin sodium (representative subunits): Heparin Sodium Injection, USP is a sterile solution of heparin sodium derived from porcine intestinal mucosa, standardized for anticoagulant activity. It is to be administered by intravenous or deep subcutaneous routes. The potency is determined by a biological assay using a USP reference standard based on units of heparin activity per milligram. Carpuject™ sterile cartridge unit contain a sterile solution of Heparin Sodium Injection, USP. Heparin Sodium Injection 5,000 USP units/1 mL, single-dose cartridge, preserved with benzyl alcohol Each mL contains 5,000 USP units of heparin sodium and benzyl alcohol 1% as a preservative, in Water for Injection. The pH is adjusted between 5.0 to 7.5 with hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide. Heparin Sodium Injection 5,000 USP units/0.5 mL, single-dose cartridge, preservative-free Each 0.5 mL of preservative-free Heparin Sodium Injection contains 5,000 USP units in Water for Injection. The pH is adjusted between 5.0 to 7.5 with hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide as required. Chemical Structure
Indications & Usage
Heparin Sodium Injection is indicated for: • Prophylaxis and treatment of venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism; • Prevention of postoperative deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing major abdominothoracic surgery or who, for other reasons, are at risk of developing thromboembolic disease; • Atrial fibrillation with embolization; • Treatment of acute and chronic consumptive coagulopathies (disseminated intravascular coagulation); • Prevention of clotting in arterial and cardiac surgery; • Prophylaxis and treatment of peripheral arterial embolism; • Anticoagulant use in blood transfusions, extracorporeal circulation, and dialysis procedures. Heparin Sodium Injection is an anticoagulant indicated for ( 1 ): • Prophylaxis and treatment of venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism • Prevention of postoperative deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing major abdominothoracic surgery or who, for other reasons, are at risk of developing thromboembolic disease • Atrial fibrillation with embolization • Treatment of acute and chronic consumptive coagulopathies (disseminated intravascular coagulation) • Prevention of clotting in arterial and cardiac surgery • Prophylaxis and treatment of peripheral arterial embolism • Use as an anticoagulant in blood transfusions, extracorporeal circulation and dialysis procedures
Dosage & Administration
Recommended Adult Dosages: • Therapeutic Anticoagulant Effect with Full-Dose Heparin* ( 2.3 ) * Based on 150 lb (68 kg) patient. Adjust dose based on laboratory monitoring. Deep, Subcutaneous (Intrafat) Injection Initial dose 5,000 units by intravenous injection, followed by 10,000 to 20,000 units of a concentrated solution, subcutaneously Use a different site for each injection. Every 8 hours or Every 12 hours 8,000 to 10,000 units of a concentrated solution 15,000 to 20,000 units of a concentrated solution Intermittent Intravenous Injection Initial dose 10,000 units, either undiluted or in 50 to 100 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP Every 4 to 6 hours 5,000 to 10,000 units, either undiluted or in 50 to 100 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP Intravenous Infusion Initial dose 5,000 units by intravenous injection Continuous 20,000 to 40,000 units/24 hours in 1,000 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (or in any compatible solution) for infusion 2.1 Preparation for Administration Confirm the choice of the correct Heparin Sodium Injection vial or cartridge prior to administration of the drug to a patient [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Heparin Sodium Injection products must not be confused with “catheter lock flush” products. To lessen this risk for a cartridge, a red cautionary statement has been added to the cartridge and box/bin. Read the cautionary statement and confirm that you have selected the correct medication and strength. When heparin is added to an infusion solution for continuous intravenous administration, invert the container repeatedly to ensure adequate mixing and prevent pooling of the heparin in the solution. Inspect parenteral drug products visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. Use only if solution is clear and the seal is intact. Do not use if solution is discolored or contains a precipitate. Administer Heparin Sodium Injection by intermittent intravenous injection, intravenous infusion, or deep subcutaneous (intrafat, i.e., above the iliac crest or abdominal fat layer) injection. Do not administer Heparin Sodium Injection by intramuscular injection because of the risk of hematoma at the injection site [see Adverse Reactions (6) ] . 2.2 Laboratory Monitoring for Efficacy and Safety Adjust the dosage of Heparin Sodium Injection according to the patient’s coagulation test results. Dosage is considered adequate when the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is 1.5 to 2 times normal or when the whole blood clotting time is elevated approximately 2.5 to 3 times the control value. When initiating treatment with Heparin Sodium Injection by continuous intravenous infusion, determine the coagulation status (aPTT, INR, platelet count) at baseline and continue to follow aPTT approximately every 4 hours and then at appropriate intervals thereafter. When the drug is administered intermittently by intravenous injection, perform coagulation tests before each injection during the initiation of treatment and at appropriate intervals thereafter. After deep subcutaneous (intrafat) injections, tests for adequacy of dosage are best performed on samples drawn 4 to 6 hours after the injection. Periodic platelet counts, and hematocrits are recommended during the entire course of heparin therapy, regardless of the route of administration. 2.3 Therapeutic Anticoagulant Effect with Full-Dose Heparin The dosing recommendations in Table 1 are based on clinical experience. Although dosages must be adjusted for the individual patient according to the results of suitable laboratory tests, the following dosage schedules may be used as guidelines: Table 1: Recommended Adult Full-Dose Heparin Regimens for Therapeutic Anticoagulant Effect METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION FREQUENCY RECOMMENDED DOSE [based on 150 lb (68 kg) patient] Deep, Subcutaneous (Intrafat) Injection Initial dose 5,000 units by intravenous injection, followed by 10,000 to 20,000 units of a concentrated solution, subcutaneously A different site should be used for each injection to prevent the development of massive hematoma Every 8 hours or Every 12 hours 8,000 to 10,000 units of a concentrated solution 15,000 to 20,000 units of a concentrated solution Intermittent Intravenous Injection Initial dose 10,000 units, either undiluted or in 50 to 100 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP Every 4 to 6 hours 5,000 to 10,000 units, either undiluted or in 50 to 100 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP Intravenous Infusion Initial dose 5,000 units by intravenous injection Continuous 20,000 to 40,000 units/24 hours in 1,000 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (or in any compatible solution) for infusion 2.4 Pediatric Use Do not use benzyl alcohol-preserved drugs in neonates and infants. Use preservative-free Heparin Sodium Injection in neonates and infants [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ]. There are no adequate and well controlled studies on heparin use in pediatric patients. Pediatric dosing recommendations are based on clinical experience. In general, the following dosage schedule may be used as a guideline in pediatric patients: Initial Dose 75 to 100 units/kg (Intravenous bolus over 10 minutes) Maintenance Dose Infants: 25 to 30 units/kg/hour; Infants < 2 months have the highest requirements (average 28 units/kg/hour) Children > 1 year of age: 18 to 20 units/kg/hour; Older children may require less heparin, similar to weight-adjusted adult dosage Monitoring Adjust heparin to maintain aPTT of 60 to 85 seconds, assuming this reflects an anti-Factor Xa level of 0.35 to 0.70 2.5 Cardiovascular Surgery Patients undergoing total body perfusion for open-heart surgery should receive an initial dose of not less than 150 units of heparin sodium per kilogram of body weight. Frequently, a dose of 300 units per kilogram is used for procedures estimated to last less than 60 minutes, or 400 units per kilogram for those estimated to last longer than 60 minutes. 2.6 Low-Dose Prophylaxis of Postoperative Thromboembolism The most widely used dosage has been 5,000 units 2 hours before surgery and 5,000 units every 8 to 12 hours thereafter for 7 days or until the patient is fully ambulatory, whichever is longer. Administer the heparin by deep subcutaneous injection (intrafat, i.e., above the iliac crest or abdominal fat layer, arm, or thigh) with a fine (25- to 26-gauge) needle to minimize tissue trauma. 2.7 Blood Transfusion Add 450 USP units to 600 USP units of heparin sodium per 100 mL of whole blood to prevent coagulation. Usually, 7,500 USP units of heparin sodium are added to 100 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (or 75,000 USP units per 1,000 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP) and mixed; from this sterile solution, 6 mL to 8 mL are added per 100 mL of whole blood. 2.8 Converting to Warfarin To ensure continuous anticoagulation when converting from Heparin Sodium Injection to warfarin, continue full heparin therapy for several days until the INR (prothrombin time) has reached a stable therapeutic range. Heparin therapy may then be discontinued without tapering [see Drug Interactions (7.1) ] . 2.9 Converting to Oral Anticoagulants other than Warfarin For patients currently receiving intravenous heparin, stop intravenous infusion of heparin sodium immediately after administering the first dose of oral anticoagulant; or for intermittent intravenous administration of heparin sodium, start oral anticoagulant 0 to 2 hours before the time that the next dose of heparin was to have been administered. 2.10 Extracorporeal Dialysis Follow equipment manufacturers’ operating directions carefully. A dose of 25 units/kg to 30 units/kg followed by an infusion rate of 1,500 units/hour to 2,000 units/hour is suggested based on pharmacodynamic data if specific manufacturer’s recommendations are not available.
Warnings & Precautions
• Fatal Medication Errors: Confirm choice of correct strength prior to administration ( 5.1 ) • Hemorrhage: Fatal cases have occurred. Use caution in conditions with increased risk of hemorrhage ( 5.2 ) • HIT and HITT: Monitor for signs and symptoms and discontinue if indicative of HIT and HITT ( 5.3 ) • Benzyl Alcohol Toxicity: Do not use benzyl alcohol-preserved drugs in neonates and infants ( 5.4 ) • Monitoring: Blood coagulation tests guide therapy for full-dose heparin ( 5.6 ) • Monitor platelet count and hematocrit in all patients receiving heparin ( 5.5 , 5.6 ) • Hyperkalemia: Measure blood potassium in patients at risk of hyperkalemia before starting heparin therapy and periodically in all patients ( 5.9 ) 5.1 Fatal Medication Errors Do not use Heparin Sodium Injection as a “catheter lock flush” product. Heparin Sodium Injection is supplied in vials and sterile cartridges containing various strengths of heparin, including vials that contain a highly concentrated solution of 10,000 units in 1 mL. Fatal hemorrhages have occurred in pediatric patients due to medication errors in which 1 mL Heparin Sodium Injection vials were confused with 1 mL “catheter lock flush” vials. Carefully examine all Heparin Sodium Injection vials and cartridges to confirm the correct product choice prior to administration of the drug. 5.2 Hemorrhage Avoid using heparin in the presence of major bleeding, except when the benefits of heparin therapy outweigh the potential risks. Hemorrhage can occur at virtually any site in patients receiving heparin. Fatal hemorrhages have occurred. Adrenal hemorrhage (with resultant acute adrenal insufficiency), ovarian hemorrhage, and retroperitoneal hemorrhage have occurred during anticoagulant therapy with heparin [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] . A higher incidence of bleeding has been reported in patients, particularly women, over 60 years of age [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . An unexplained fall in hematocrit, fall in blood pressure or any other unexplained symptom should lead to serious consideration of a hemorrhagic event. Use heparin sodium with caution in disease states in which there is increased risk of hemorrhage, including: • Cardiovascular — Subacute bacterial endocarditis, severe hypertension. • Surgical — During and immediately following (a) spinal tap or spinal anesthesia or (b) major surgery, especially involving the brain, spinal cord, or eye. • Hematologic — Conditions associated with increased bleeding tendencies, such as hemophilia, thrombocytopenia, and some vascular purpuras. • Patients with hereditary antithrombin III deficiency receiving concurrent antithrombin III therapy — The anticoagulant effect of heparin is enhanced by concurrent treatment with antithrombin III (human) in patients with hereditary antithrombin III deficiency. To reduce the risk of bleeding, reduce the heparin dose during concomitant treatment with antithrombin III (human). • Gastrointestinal — Ulcerative lesions and continuous tube drainage of the stomach or small intestine. • Other — Menstruation, liver disease with impaired hemostasis. 5.3 Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia and Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a serious antibody-mediated reaction. HIT occurs in patients treated with heparin and is due to the development of antibodies to a platelet Factor 4-heparin complex that induce in vivo platelet aggregation. HIT may progress to the development of venous and arterial thromboses, a condition referred to as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia with thrombosis (HITT). Thrombotic events may also be the initial presentation for HITT. These serious thromboembolic events include deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, cerebral vein thrombosis, limb ischemia, stroke, myocardial infarction, mesenteric thrombosis, renal arterial thrombosis, skin necrosis, gangrene of the extremities that may lead to amputation, and possibly death. If the platelet count falls below 100,000/mm 3 or if recurrent thrombosis develops, promptly discontinue heparin, evaluate for HIT and HITT, and, if necessary, administer an alternative anticoagulant. HIT or HITT can occur up to several weeks after the discontinuation of heparin therapy. Patients presenting with thrombocytopenia or thrombosis after discontinuation of heparin sodium should be evaluated for HIT or HITT. 5.4 Risk of Serious Adverse Reactions in Infants Due to Benzyl Alcohol Preservative Serious and fatal adverse reactions including “gasping syndrome” can occur in neonates and infants treated with benzyl alcohol-preserved drugs, including Heparin Sodium Injection vials and cartridges. The “gasping syndrome” is characterized by central nervous system depression, metabolic acidosis, and gasping respirations. When prescribing Heparin Sodium Injection cartridges in infants consider the combined daily metabolic load of benzyl alcohol from all sources including Heparin Sodium Injection cartridges (Heparin Sodium Injection 5,000 USP units/1 mL single-dose cartridge contains 10 mg of benzyl alcohol per mL) and other drugs containing benzyl alcohol. The minimum amount of benzyl alcohol at which toxicity may occur is not known [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] . 5.5 Thrombocytopenia Thrombocytopenia in patients receiving heparin has been reported at frequencies up to 30%. It can occur 2 to 20 days (average 5 to 9) following the onset of heparin therapy. Obtain platelet counts before and periodically during heparin therapy. Monitor thrombocytopenia of any degree closely. If the count falls below 100,000/mm 3 or if recurrent thrombosis develops, promptly discontinue heparin, evaluate for HIT and HITT, and, if necessary, administer an alternative anticoagulant [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . 5.6 Coagulation Testing and Monitoring When using a full dose heparin regimen, adjust the heparin dose based on frequent blood coagulation tests. If the coagulation test is unduly prolonged or if hemorrhage occurs, discontinue heparin promptly [see Overdosage (10) ] . Periodic platelet counts and hematocrits are recommended during the entire course of heparin therapy, regardless of the route of administration [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) ]. 5.7 Heparin Resistance Resistance to heparin is frequently encountered in fever, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, infections with thrombosing tendencies, myocardial infarction, cancer, in postsurgical patients, and patients with antithrombin III deficiency. Close monitoring of coagulation tests is recommended in these cases. Adjustment of heparin doses based on anti-Factor Xa levels may be warranted. 5.8 Hypersensitivity Patients with documented hypersensitivity to heparin should be given the drug only in clearly life-threatening situations. Because Heparin Sodium Injection is derived from animal tissue, it should be used with caution in patients with a history of allergy. 5.9 Hyperkalemia Heparin can suppress adrenal secretion of aldosterone leading to hyperkalemia, particularly in patients with diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure, pre-existing metabolic acidosis, a raised plasma potassium, or taking potassium sparing drugs. The risk of hyperkalemia appears to increase with duration of therapy but is usually reversible upon discontinuation of heparin. Measure blood potassium in patients at risk of hyperkalemia before starting heparin therapy and periodically in all patients treated for more than 5 days or earlier as deemed fit by the clinician.
Contraindications
The use of Heparin Sodium Injection is contraindicated in patients with the following conditions: • History of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Known hypersensitivity to heparin or pork products (e.g., anaphylactoid reactions) [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] • In whom suitable blood coagulation tests, e.g., the whole blood clotting time, partial thromboplastin time, etc., cannot be performed at appropriate intervals (this contraindication refers to full-dose heparin; there is usually no need to monitor coagulation parameters in patients receiving low-dose heparin) • An uncontrolled active bleeding state [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] , except when this is due to disseminated intravascular coagulation • Severe thrombocytopenia ( 4 ) • Known hypersensitivity to heparin or pork products (e.g., anaphylactoid reactions) ( 4 ) • When suitable blood coagulation tests, e.g., the whole blood clotting time, partial thromboplastin time, etc., cannot be performed at appropriate intervals ( 4 ) • An uncontrolled active bleeding state, except when this is due to disseminated intravascular coagulation ( 4 )
Adverse Reactions
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: • Hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia and Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Risk of Serious Adverse Reactions in Infants Due to Benzyl Alcohol Preservative [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] • Thrombocytopenia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • Heparin Resistance [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] • Hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] • Hyperkalemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Most common adverse reactions are hemorrhage, thrombocytopenia, HIT and HITT, injection site irritation, general hypersensitivity reactions, and elevations of aminotransferase levels. ( 6.2 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Pfizer Inc. at 1-800-438-1985 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of Heparin Sodium Injection. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. • Hemorrhage is the chief complication that may result from heparin therapy [see Warnings and precautions (5.2) ] . Gastrointestinal or urinary tract bleeding during anticoagulant therapy may indicate the presence of an underlying occult lesion. Bleeding can occur at any site but certain specific hemorrhagic complications may be difficult to detect: • Adrenal hemorrhage, with resultant acute adrenal insufficiency, has occurred with heparin therapy, including fatal cases. • Ovarian (corpus luteum) hemorrhage developed in a number of women of reproductive age receiving short- or long-term heparin therapy. • Retroperitoneal hemorrhage. • HIT and HITT, including delayed onset cases [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]. • Local irritation - Local irritation, erythema, mild pain, hematoma or ulceration may follow deep subcutaneous (intrafat) injection of heparin sodium. Because these complications are much more common after intramuscular use, the intramuscular route is not recommended. • Histamine-like reactions - Such reactions have been observed at the site of injections. Necrosis of the skin has been reported at the site of subcutaneous injection of heparin, occasionally requiring skin grafting [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . • Hypersensitivity - Generalized hypersensitivity reactions have been reported, with chills, fever and urticaria as the most usual manifestations, and asthma, rhinitis, lacrimation, headache, nausea and vomiting, and anaphylactoid reactions, including shock, occurring less frequently. Itching and burning, especially on the plantar side of the feet, may occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] . • Elevations of aminotransferases - Significant elevations of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels have occurred in patients who have received heparin. • Miscellaneous - Osteoporosis following long-term administration of high doses of heparin, cutaneous necrosis after systemic administration, suppression of aldosterone synthesis, delayed transient alopecia, priapism, and rebound hyperlipemia on discontinuation of heparin sodium have also been reported. • Metabolism and nutrition disorders - Hyperkalemia.
Drug Interactions
Drugs that interfere with platelet aggregation: May induce bleeding. ( 7.2 ) 7.1 Oral Anticoagulants Heparin sodium may prolong the one-stage prothrombin time. Therefore, when heparin sodium is given with dicumarol or warfarin sodium, a period of at least 5 hours after the last intravenous dose or 24 hours after the last subcutaneous dose should elapse before blood is drawn, if a valid prothrombin time is to be obtained. 7.2 Platelet Inhibitors Drugs such as NSAIDS (including salicylic acid, ibuprofen, indomethacin, and celecoxib), dextran, phenylbutazone, thienopyridines, dipyridamole, hydroxychloroquine, glycoprotein IIb/IIIa antagonists (including abciximab, eptifibatide, and tirofiban), and others that interfere with platelet-aggregation reactions (the main hemostatic defense of heparinized patients) may induce bleeding and should be used with caution in patients receiving heparin sodium. To reduce the risk of bleeding, a reduction in the dose of antiplatelet agent or heparin is recommended. 7.3 Other Interactions Digitalis, tetracyclines, nicotine or antihistamines may partially counteract the anticoagulant action of heparin sodium. Intravenous nitroglycerin administered to heparinized patients may result in a decrease of the partial thromboplastin time with subsequent rebound effect upon discontinuation of nitroglycerin. Careful monitoring of partial thromboplastin time and adjustment of heparin dosage are recommended during coadministration of heparin and intravenous nitroglycerin. Antithrombin III (human) – The anticoagulant effect of heparin is enhanced by concurrent treatment with antithrombin III (human) in patients with hereditary antithrombin III deficiency. To reduce the risk of bleeding, a reduced dosage of heparin is recommended during treatment with antithrombin III (human).
Storage & Handling
Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Do not freeze. Discard unused portion after initial use.
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